Style experts: I need some assistance in reforming my wardrobe. Would anyone mind sharing their knowledge and guide me?

Let me start by saying, I'm new here to the style forum. So if I have already made some stupid mistake, please forgive me.

okay here we go.

I'm nearly 17 years old and I want to develop a more mature, more manly, wardrobe. What exactly should I invest in? I'm rather conservative when it comes to clothing and I would like to remain that way. So please don't give me tips on how to dress like some young college kid. I want to dress like a man

Btw, I do already own quite a few polos and plain-colored t-shirts.

I apologize again for any ignorance I may exhibit. I intend to educate myself via this forum.

No one can give the answer you seek outright. There are many things to learn, sub-styles, etc.

I think the forum has some good primers and guides for beginners somewhere. Look around.

In the meantime, subscribe to GQ & Esquire, and look at what they have on display month to month - you'll start noticing patterns, colors etc. Navigate their websites. Of course, not everything they show is great - or is going to fit your style - I hate some of the stuff. But it'll feed your brain and tastes.

Go on some style blogs, there are tons. Learn what brands are out there that you see mentioned here - Wings & Horns, RRL, APC, Club Monaco, J Crew, etc. They each have a specific focus, price range, quality, etc...but if you see their lookbooks, you'll get ideas for what you like and how models are put together.

You're really young, so take your time. A 17 year old with a fedora is going to look like an idiot. Start low key. Your transformation is going to take years...

I said absolutely nothing about wanting to dress like Don Draper. He's only my avatar because I'm a huge fan of the show. I'm looking for advice on casual wear anyways. That's why I posted in street wear and denim.

You should browse the WAYWT thread and take notes of the looks that appeal to you. I would also caution against going all out because 1) you're probably still growing and 2) your tastes will inevitably change.

You know, I wouldn't have thought there were so many immature people browsing these forums, but some of the people who have posted in this thread have really surprised me. To anyone inclined to be a smartass: Go ahead and discredit yourself. You're only making yourself look ridiculous.

You should browse the WAYWT thread and take notes of the looks that appeal to you. I would also caution against going all out because 1) you're probably still growing and 2) your tastes will inevitably change.

May I suggest to start basic. Never underestimate the greatness of a clean white t-shirt and well fitting jeans, with great sneakers. But this is a good age to try different things. You don't look too ridiculous, and when you look back you can blame it on the fact that you were 17, hah! May I suggest one of my ties once I am able to sell? (also a newbie to the forum) Something like a camo print tie, or a leather bow tie may be that something to make your look a little more MAN. CMP Originals on facebook :) You'll find your groove.

According to the world of menswear, everything is a staple... colorful field jackets, chambray pocket squares, navy double monks, seersucker suits. But unless you want to immediately spend $5-10k on quality staples, work with what you've got, and add some decent pieces, then go out and talk to girls.

Assuming you look your age, you could get away with the following without looking like you're dressed for church:

-jeans,cotton pants, or flat front wool trousers

-fitted button down (no tie, tucked)

-suede or brushed leather oxfords or boots

Anything more formal than this (e.g. polished wingtips, tie w/o a jacket) pushes into electronics salesman or toward full reatard mc territory, probably not the everyday look you're going for.

If you've got a decent linen, cotton, tweed, or flannel sportscoat, you can match it with any of the above if you want to get fancy. Note: an orphaned worsted suit jacket is not a sportscoat, but unless you're the scion of a wealthy banking family in Switzerland, you're fine if you've got the brass to pull it off. Make sure the shoulders fit.

Knits are good.

Leather jacket must be awesome if you're to wear one at all.

Find an alterations tailor and use them, especially for all the ill-fitting stuff you already have.

Military surplus for versatile outerwear on the cheap. Unless it's pissing rain or -20, cotton and wool will be fine, and a damn sight nicer than most hiking or snowboard gear. Once again, see your tailor.

I'm nearly 17 years old and I want to develop a more mature, more manly, wardrobe. What exactly should I invest in? I'm rather conservative when it comes to clothing and I would like to remain that way. So please don't give me tips on how to dress like some young college kid. I want to dress like a man

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheBondVillian

You know, I wouldn't have thought there were so many immature people browsing these forums, but some of the people who have posted in this thread have really surprised me. To anyone inclined to be a smartass: Go ahead and discredit yourself. You're only making yourself look ridiculous.

dude, I think people are acting 'immature' in response to your q because you've barely got hair on your balls and are already trying to dress like someone your dad's age. act your age--you're a not-yet-college-kid trying to dress like a full grown man? second surest way to look like an asshat, imo. the surest way is to ask others how to do it.

I suggest to start black. Black boots, black jeans, white/black tee and black leather jacket. Quality over quantity, especially jacket and boots. Black will be your new best friend. Then once you have enough of black, you can start to think about other colors such as dark grey, grey and white.